Seven steps to supporting sight loss

A charity supporting people living with sight loss is appealing for support from the profession and industry to help it deliver its Seven Steps service to more patients.

Launched last year by Henshaws, the NHS-endorsed Seven Steps initiative is a road map tool to help people diagnosed with visual impairment find out what to do next, and ensure they are aware of the support available in their local area.

Robert Cooper (pictured), director of community services at Henshaws, explained: “Receiving a sight loss diagnosis can be a very distressing and confusing time, and after hearing the news many people become isolated and go many years without the right support, or even knowing what their sight condition is. We worked with our service users and health partners to create a tool that ensures everyone can receive the right level of expert support, be better equipped to self-manage their condition, and make informed choices about their future.”

The seven step plan, supported by Vision UK, includes speaking to a sight loss advisor in the area, getting a referral to a local rehabilitation team, and regularly reviewing a personal plan.

Find out more by getting touch with Henshaws on 0300 222 5555 or emailing info@henshaws.org.uk